The best holiday destinations in Spain

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Spain is an incredible holiday destination — after all there’s a reason it’s one of the most travelled destinations in Europe, second only to France. And it’s a no-brainer really, it literally has a little something for everyone.

From amazing and immersive experiences, to culturally-authentic food, festivals and traditions to romantic, secluded getaways and blue flag beaches for some relaxation and from exciting cities, great outdoor adventures and fine wines to beautiful sights steeped in history — whatever you are looking for in a holiday, Spain is sure to have it. The challenge however, is pinpointing exactly where to go! So, to make your life easier, we have highlighted some of the best holiday destinations in Spain that are perfect for an extraordinary holiday:

Madrid

When many people think of the best holiday destinations in Spain, chances are, the famed city of Madrid will be one of the first to spring to mind. Smack bang in the middle of Spain (more or less) Madrid is a place where you can indulge in all of life's finest offerings: first class food, the best in art and entertainment, elaborate festivals, a great nightlife and phenomenal must-see sights. For the foodies amongst you, spoil yourself with an extraordinary, yet unusual, dining experience at DriverXO, which boasts three Michelin stars.

This energetic city will give you the impression that it doesn’t sleep… or at least, not very much. During certain times of the year it’s not unheard of to go for dinner at midnight. Day trips to incredible towns reachable by train are an absolute must, with our top recommendation being the medieval town of Toledo.

A city that can experience extreme weather in the heights of summer and winter, it’s advisable to visit Madrid in the shoulder seasons — spring which runs from April to June and autumn from September to October.

Barcelona

One of the best holiday destinations in Spain would have to be the eclectic city of Barcelona, and the experience you will have here is decidedly different to that which you will have in Madrid. The city itself is set in an autonomous community in Spain that is determined to stay independent, Catalonia, and has an unparalleled energy — echoing that of the passionate people that live there. The exciting city is constantly evolving yet is steeped in a rich history and there is so much to see, not the least of which is the enchanting nature-inspired architecture by Antoni Gaudí that will have you captivated for hours. If time is limited, ensure that you at least marvel at probably the most famous of his works: La Sagrada Familia.

But sightseeing is not all that there is to do in Barcelona — explore the local markets, shop like a celebrity, enjoy a day at the beach, take a stroll along Rambla de Catalunya or embark on a day trip to the Pyrenees — whatever you do, you are bound to have an amazing time in this city.

Spring from May to June is a good time to visit as it is less humid than in summer, and not yet peak tourist season. Another major perk is that there is an abundance of pre-summer festivals to experience. In winter, it can get a bit cold, and the weather a bit bleak, but you will be able to reap the reward of off-peak tourist season prices.

Seville

It would not be a ‘best holiday destinations in Spain’ list without including this mesmerizing city. This city is the capital of the Andalucian community, which is said to be the birthplace of some of the most stereotypically Spanish things the world over — flamenco, bullfights and tapas. With that in mind, you should ask yourself: would a trip to Spain for you be complete without visiting Seville? With a growing biking community, seeing the city by bike will have you feeling like a local while really being able to take in a city that was said to have been formed 3 000 years ago. Do something a bit different and get a real feel for the culture of the city with a trip to its flamenco museum, Museo del Baile Flamenco.With an interesting, rich, yet complicated history, and three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Seville has no shortage of contrasting architecture and historical sites to enjoy.

Again, the milder months are the best to visit, but it really depends on what you are looking for. Winter, while the temperatures can get quite cold, has a wonderful Christmas charm accentuated by the Christmas lights all over the city, and the Christmas markets. Summer in Seville, while extremely hot, is low season, so the crowds are fewer and the prices lower.

Calpe

Calpe is by far one of the best holiday destinations in Spain. Located in the Valencian province of Alicante. This absolutely gorgeous city, lies alongside stretches of white sandy beaches, and the inviting cerulean Mediterranean Sea. This is a small paradise in the south-east of the Iberian Peninsula, and is a nice reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the bigger, more frenetic cities, but with no fewer things to do. Activities in Calpe abound, and it’s a place where you can find the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Enjoy relaxing on the blue flag beach Arenal-Bol while savouring the view of the Ifach Rock, explore the ample options for dining, get your hiking boots on and explore the surrounding areas, or visit the salt mine for some incredible birdwatching opportunities.

For those that enjoy watersports, you have your pick of activities, and for those that are looking for some ‘me time’ indulge in treatments at spas in some of the best Clape hotels. For certified divers who are looking for a truly unique experience, be sure to visit the underwater — yes, underwater — wine cellar, Vina Maris. At very least, don’t leave Calpe without sampling some of the cellar’s wines that have been aged under the sea. For more information, click here. Travellers wanting a taste of the nightlife will not be disappointed and there are many bars to choose from. Calpe has mild winters and glorious summers, and with 325 days of sunshine a year, you can go whenever your heart desires.

If a holiday with the best of what Spain has to offer and a little something for everyone, sounds like your kind of vacation, then look no further than Calpe. A dream location with all the perks of the city and all the joys of a seaside town, you quite literally can’t go wrong. Contact us to book a stay at one of our incredible Calpe hotels today.